Mittens and Sunglasses

December was the month I found a new favourite romance author: Jessica Redland.

Starry Skies Over the Chocolate Pot Café was the second book by Jessica Redland I picked up, and it was such a lovely read.

Publisher’s description:

Everyone is getting into the festive spirit on Castle Street – snow is falling, fairy lights are glistening and Christmas shopping is underway.

But for Tara Porter, owner of thriving cafe, The Chocolate Pot, this is the most difficult time of the year. From the outside, Tara is a successful businesswoman and pillar of the community. Behind closed doors, she is lonely.

With a lifetime of secrets weighing on her shoulders, she has retreated from all friends, family and romance, and shut her real self away from the world. Afterall, if you don’t let them in, they can’t hurt you. She’s learnt that the hard way.

But as the weight of her past becomes heavier and an unexpected new neighbour moves onto the street – threatening the future of her cafe – Tara begins to realise that maybe it’s time to finally let people back in and confront her history. It could just change her life forever…

Even though I didn’t have any traumatic events sourrounding Christmas, I could sort of relate to Tara. It hasn’t been my favourite time of year for a long time. And I think it can be a tough time for many, for different reasons. The fact the author brings in mental health as an important part of the story, really added to it. It’s not “just another romance book”.

The first Jessica Redland book I read was Christmas at the Cat Café, and it should not come as a surprise that there were a few cats in that one. Starry Skies Over the Chocolate Pot Café also had a four legged family member, namely the gigant house bunny Hercules. I must admit I really wanted to give this bunny a big cuddle! I love bunnies, and actually had one when I was in my teens. His name was Black Beauty, or Blackie for short. I think these fury family members really adds a little extra love in the books!

Since then, I have read a third book by the author, and two paperbacks are on their way to me in the mail. I also have my Kobo, so… Yeah. Will definitely continue reading more books by Jessica Redland for sure!